XXIX International Ballet Festival of Miami: A Celebration of Dance from July 20 to August 11, 2024
The XXIX International Ballet Festival of Miami (IBFM) will take place from July 20 to August 11, 2024. Under the artistic direction of Eriberto Jiménez, the IBFM continues its tradition of excellence by inviting over 100 artists annually. These artists represent some of the most renowned ballet and contemporary dance companies from Europe, South America, Asia, and North America, with many companies making their United States debut.
A highly anticipated annual summer event, the IBFM is considered one of the most important ballet festivals in the United States. Its significance has earned the festival stellar national and international reviews, placing Miami prominently on the worldwide cultural map. The festival’s diverse events include art exhibitions, book presentations, dance films, workshops, master classes, and performances at various venues throughout Miami Beach, South Miami, Broward, and Miami.
The IBFM opening night takes place on Saturday, July 20, at 7:00 pm with a VIP reception and the official unveiling and signing of the IBFM poster. Every year, the festival selects a different artist to create the IBFM poster. This year, Afro-Caribbean artist Eric Picardo, with graphic design by Camilo Rubio, has been chosen. Mr. Picardo will also present an exhibit of his works. The statuette “A Life for Dance” Lifetime Achievement Award, created by famous Mexican sculptor David Cormalinga, will also be unveiled in the galleries of the Miami Hispanic Cultural Arts Center.
From July 22 to August 9, the IBFM offers an International Ballet Summer Intensive, hosting students from various countries, including Colombia, Panama, the Dominican Republic, Italy, France, and the USA.
From July 26 to 28, the IBFM offers young medalist performances, featuring the stars of tomorrow. These performances showcase young dance talents who have won medals in national and international competitions. On July 26 at 1:00 pm, there will be a special performance for the African Heritage Cultural Arts Center summer students. Performances continue on July 27 at 8:00 pm at the Miami Theater Center and on July 28 at 11:00 am with our “Dance Marathon,” a free program created to showcase local talent at the Miami Beach Bandshell.
From August 1 to 4, our contemporary performances begin, featuring cutting-edge international contemporary dance companies from Colombia, Switzerland, France, the Dominican Republic, England, and the USA, including a mix of music and styles. Performances are scheduled for August 1 at 7:00 pm with a free outdoor performance at Brickell City Center, August 2 at 8:00 pm at the Lehman Theater - Miami Dade College North Campus, August 3 at 8:00 pm at the Dennis C. Moss Cultural Arts Center, and August 4 at 5:00 pm at the Amaturo Theater Broward Center for the Performing Arts.
Lastly, the IBFM will host two classical galas on August 10 and 11 at the Fillmore Miami Beach, featuring principal dancers from worldwide companies, including Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Croatia, the Dominican Republic, England, France, Germany, Italy, Mexico, Romania, Spain, and the United States. On August 10 at 8:00 pm, the “Grand Classical Gala” includes the presentation of the IBFM Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring worldwide dance figures. This year’s honoree is Russian principal dancer, teacher, and director Ms. Valentina Kozlova. On August 11 at 5:00 pm, the festival concludes with the “Closing Gala,” featuring all guest performers dancing a different program and the presentation of the “Criticism and Culture of Dance” award, honoring renowned dance critics. This year’s honoree is Mr. Perfecto Uriel, director of Casa de la Danza and editor of Danza en Escena magazine in Spain.
Art is a labor of love; it takes more than passion to bring it to life. Join us in celebrating this unique cultural event that showcases the beauty and artistry of dance.
For tickets and information, please visit www.internationalballetfestival.org.